Emmanuel Wanyonyi sets record straight on why he missed the World Cross Country Championships

ATHLETICS Emmanuel Wanyonyi sets record straight on why he missed the World Cross Country Championships

Abigael Wafula 14:26 - 03.04.2024

Emmanuel Wanyonyi has cleared the air on why he missed the World Cross Country Championships in Belgrade, Serbia.

Fans were anticipating world 800m silver medallist Emmanuel Wanyonyi at the World Cross Country Championships in Belgrade, Serbia last weekend but the youngster was nowhere to be seen.

During the 2023 edition of the event held in Bathurst, Australia, the former World Under-20 800m champion was in action in the mixed relay team that won gold, and many were hoping to see him once again.

However, at this year’s edition, the team comprised Kyumbe Munguti, Purity Chepkirui, Reynold Cheruiyot, and Virginia Nyambura who won gold to successfully defend the title. Eyebrows have been raised on why the 19-year-old missed the global showpiece and in an exclusive interview with Pulse Sports, he cited the reasons.

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“I was preparing for the cross country but my coach thought it would be wise for me not to go and focus on training for the track events,” Wanyonyi told Pulse Sports, while terming it a last-minute decision since he was getting ready for a return to the World Cross Country.

He also assured his fans that he is doing well and at the moment, just gearing up for the Kip Keino Classic happening at the Nyayo National Stadium on Saturday, April 20.

At the continental event, Wanyonyi noted that he will not put much pressure on himself since it will be his first 800m race this season.

“I’m doing fine…at the moment I’m just in the camp training for the Kip Keino Classic. I don’t have any targets set since it will be my first 800m race this season,” Wanyonyi said.

Just like any other track and field athlete, Wanyonyi hopes to make the cut to the Olympic team ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.